• John Brenkus, creator and host of "Sport Science," has died at 54.
• He struggled with depression, which he discussed publicly.
• Brenkus hosted "Sport Science" from 2007 to 2017, winning six Emmys.
• ESPN and Brinx TV announced his passing on May 31, 2025.
• The show explored the science behind athletic performance.

John Brenkus, the charismatic creator and host of ESPN's "Sport Science," passed away on May 31, 2025, at the age of 54, after a prolonged battle with depression, according to Los Angeles Times and HuffPost.

His production company, Brinx TV, released a statement requesting privacy for his family and encouraging those who suffer from similar issues to seek help. "John lost his fight with this terrible illness," the statement added, which also indicated the impact of his death on those close to him, according to New York Times and Los Angeles Times.

Brenkus was well-known for his successful television show "Sport Science," which aired from 2007 to 2017 and won six Emmy awards. The program was renowned for its creative exploration of athletic abilities and the science behind them, setting itself apart in the sports media landscape, as noted by HuffPost and New York Times.

Throughout the show's run, Brenkus participated in various experiments to demonstrate the physics of sports, often putting himself in potential harm's way to illustrate key points about athletic performance and human capabilities. His unique approach helped make science relatable and engaging for a wide audience, according to Los Angeles Times.